Ezekiel 24:20 (KJV)

What does Ezekiel 24:20 mean?

Ezekiel 24:20 shows the prophet Ezekiel responding to the people by saying that God’s message had come to him. This verse sets up Ezekiel’s explanation for his unusual actions, making it clear that what he is about to say or do comes directly from God.

Ezekiel is speaking to the exiled Israelites in Babylon, who have noticed his strange behavior and are asking for an explanation. In this moment, Ezekiel tells them that he is not acting on his own but is delivering a message from the LORD. This verse acts as a transition, preparing the listeners for an important revelation that follows.

The Hebrew behind Ezekiel 24:20

• “answered” (וָאֹמַר, va’omar): This word means “I said” or “I answered.” It highlights that Ezekiel is directly responding to the people’s questions, showing a real conversation is happening.
• “word” (דָּבָר, davar): This word means “message” or “word.” In this context, it emphasizes that what Ezekiel is about to share is not his own idea but a communication from God.
• “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, reminding the reader that the message has divine authority.
• “saying” (לֵאמֹר, le’emor): This word means “saying” or “to say.” It introduces the direct message that follows, marking a clear shift from Ezekiel’s actions to God’s explanation.

Why Ezekiel 24:20 matters

• Ezekiel 24:20 clarifies that Ezekiel’s actions are not random or personal but are directed by God, which helps the audience understand the seriousness of the message.
• This verse connects Ezekiel’s behavior to a prophetic sign, showing that God often used prophets’ lives and actions as visual lessons for the people.
• By stating that the word of the LORD came to him, Ezekiel prepares the people to listen carefully to what follows, underlining the importance of God’s communication in times of crisis.